Protein Conversion Feather/Blood Operator

Pilgrim's • Edinburg, VA

3d • Onsite

About The Position

The Feather/Blood Systems Operator is responsible for the safe, efficient, and continuous operation of feather and blood processing systems within the protein conversion facility. The role monitors processing equipment, ensures product quality standards are met, maintains equipment performance, and supports production goals while following safety, environmental, and company policies.

The position operates on second shift, from 2:00 PM to 10:30 PM, at Pilgrim’s Protein Conversion in Edinburg, Virginia. The work takes place in an industrial rendering/protein conversion facility, with exposure to moving machinery, steam, heat, dust, raw materials, odors, finished products, varying noise levels, and outdoor weather conditions. Overtime, weekends, holidays, and emergency call-ins may be required as needed.

The base hourly rate is $20.45. Medical, dental, and vision coverage begins after 60 days of employment. Paid time off includes sick leave, vacation, and six company-observed holidays. A 401(k) company match begins after the first year of service and follows the company vesting schedule. Pilgrim’s also offers continuous learning opportunities and career development programs. Applicants must provide a complete five-year work history. New team members are subject to post-offer drug, alcohol, and background checks.

Requirements

• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Ability to understand and follow operating procedures and safety guidelines.
• Basic mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills.
• Strong attention to detail and quality.
• Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills.
• Commitment to safety, consistent attendance, and reliability.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Ability to climb stairs and ladders and work on elevated platforms.
• Ability to bend, stoop, kneel, and reach frequently.
• Ability to work in varying temperatures, odors, noise levels, and outdoor weather conditions.
• Ability to wear required personal protective equipment, including hard hats, safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, respirators, and steel-toed footwear.
• Must provide a complete five-year work history for consideration.

Nice To Haves

• Previous manufacturing, rendering, protein conversion, or poultry experience.
• Experience operating cookers, pumps, conveyors, and processing equipment.
• Forklift certification.

Responsibilities

• Operate and monitor feather and blood processing systems, including collection, transfer, storage, drying, meal handling, pumps, tanks, conveyors, and related equipment.
• Monitor temperatures, pressures, flow rates, and other operating parameters to support product quality and efficient production.
• Ensure proper material flow through processing systems and make operational adjustments as needed.
• Conduct routine equipment inspections, identify process or equipment issues, and notify supervision or maintenance of abnormalities.
• Collect product samples and assist with quality control activities.
• Maintain accurate production records, operating logs, and shift documentation.
• Perform basic troubleshooting and support equipment cleaning and sanitation activities.
• Maintain cleanliness, housekeeping, and sanitation standards in receiving, processing, and loadout areas.
• Follow safety, environmental, and company policies.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage beginning after 60 days of employment.
• Paid sick leave and vacation.
• Six company-observed holidays.
• 401(k) company match beginning after the first year of service, subject to the company vesting schedule.
• Continuous learning opportunities and career development programs.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED